Antkey

ID guide | introduced ants

Seasonal changes in bait preference by red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1990
Authors:M. B. Stein, Thorvilson, H. G., Johnson, J. W.
Journal:Florida Entomologist
Volume:73
Pagination:117-123
Abstract:

Bait stations were established in four different vegetational habitats near Houston Texas, to attract Solenopsis invicta Buren, the red imported fire ant (RIFA). Bait preferences were compared in each habitat for each monthly 24-h sampling period. Foragers located both the high carbohydrate and high protein baits, but greater numbers were recruited to the carbohydrate bait during the sampling periods of the year registering lower temperatures (mean = 17°C). In contrast, when the seasonal temperatures were greater (mean = 25°C), RlFA's were collected in higher numbers on the proteinaceous bait. These findings must be considered when planning a field research project to collect RIFA's.

Alternate Journal:Florida Entomol.
Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith